Brenna & Jesse
Things To Do
Eagle Landing State Park
Where the bride and groom will be taking cocktail hour pictures! In its heyday, the Eagle Landing area housed a cruise port. The line offered scenic trips through the lower Connecticut River Valley and across the Long Island Sound. The greater story is the visitation and re-population of the Valley by Bald Eagles. Today's combination of riverine land preservation which provides suitable habitat, and the significant decrease in pesticide based food contamination has enabled the eagle population to rebound from a near total absence in the state in the 1950s to today's winter sightings that number in the dozens. Benches, walkways and docks provide the year-round visitor with respite from life stresses. Whether watching the boats in summer or hoping for a glimpse of our national symbol in the winter months.
Goodspeed Opera House
Goodspeed is a two-time Tony Award winning theater that is easy to get to and has that quaint, classic New England charm. The Goodspeed produces America's musical treasures to delight, inspire, and entertain you. Performances Wednesday through Sunday, April through December.
Gillette Castle State Park
Constructed for William Gillette, the first actor to portray Sherlock Holmes, this hill-top castle was completed in 1919. Three miles of narrow gauge railroad have been converted to hiking trails that are open year-round, and the castle museum is open for tours seasonally.
Essex Steam Train & Riverboat
The Essex Steam Train operates all the way up to Goodspeed's Station Country Store just across the street from our venue. The Valley Railroad is a heritage railroad, following the original track line from 1868. They host seasonal events for children, families, couples, and groups.
Staehly Farm & Winery
Family-owned farm winery using 100% estate grown fruit in its wines. Member of the Connecticut Wine Passport Program. Winery tasting room open May through October, check website for hours. Pick-your-own fruit available as well. Visit website.
Nathan Hale Schoolhouse East Haddam
One-room school house from 1750. Nathan Hale served as schoolmaster from 1773 to 1774. The structure was later moved from Goodspeed Plaza to its present location with stunning views of the River Valley and the East Haddam Swing Bridge. Open May through October and by appointment.